smide

Smide is a term found in several Nordic languages that relates to metalworking and the smithing trade. In Swedish, smide refers to the craft of smithing and to the metal objects produced by a smith; the related verb form implies forging or shaping metal. In Norwegian and Danish, smide is used similarly to denote the activity of forging and the smithing trade, as well as the products of that craft. The term sits within a broader family of words for metalworking across North Germanic languages.

Etymology: Smide is derived from Old Norse and related North Germanic roots associated with making and shaping metal. It has cognates across the Scandinavian languages that reflect craftspeople, workshops, and the practice of smithing.

Other uses: Beyond its linguistic sense, smide occurs as a surname in Nordic countries and may appear in geographic or historical contexts. In academic and museum discussions of metalworking, smide is used to describe the traditional craft and its techniques.

See also: smith, smithing, smíð (Icelandic related term).